Trades between division rivals are rare in the NFL, but on Thursday, the Philadelphia Eagles and Washington Commanders made a notable exception.
The Eagles announced their acquisition of wide receiver Jahan Dotson and a 2025 fifth-round pick in exchange for a third-round pick and two seventh-round picks in the 2025 NFL Draft.
Dotson, drafted 16th overall by the Commanders in 2022, has yet to fully meet expectations. During his rookie season, the Penn State standout showed glimpses of his potential, catching 35 passes for 523 yards and seven touchdowns, despite missing five games due to a hamstring injury. In 2023, Dotson played in all 17 games but recorded just 518 yards and four touchdowns on 49 receptions.
Dotson entered the 2022 draft as a highly-regarded prospect, known for his deep-ball ability. Over his four-year collegiate career, he averaged 15.1 yards per catch and set career highs during his senior season with 91 catches for 1,182 yards and 12 touchdowns for the Nittany Lions.
Now, Dotson joins a loaded Eagles offense led by star quarterback Jalen Hurts, along with dynamic receivers A.J. Brown and DeVonta Smith. Philadelphia also bolstered its roster by adding star running back Saquon Barkley this offseason. With so much talent around him, Dotson is expected to have more opportunities to contribute consistently.
After a disappointing end to their 2023 season, the Eagles are looking to rebound, and adding Dotson is a strategic move as they prepare for the 2024 campaign.